Life & Livelihoods of Former Chitmôhol People

Abstract

This study is a part of my Master in Development Studies (MDS) at United International University (UIU). I have conducted this research project during the period of Summer 2017 to Fall 2017. My study areas are Noyahat, Bongerbari & Gucchogram of Dahagram Union which were the areas of former enclaves Dahagram- Angarpota. I collected data of this study from both the primary and secondary sources. Primary data was collected through survey and KII (Key Informant Info) in the study area. Secondary data was collected from the websites (Bangladesh National Portal, BANGLAPEDIA), e-journals and e-newspapers (Prothom Alo, Daily Star, Dhaka Tribune, Daily Star) for my research background analysis. Dahagram was isolated from 22 years after Bangladesh got birth. Chitmôhols or Enclaves are unresolved issues until 2015 when the two countries Bangladesh and India exchanged 162 enclaves, addressed border demarcation and adverse propositions. The people of chitmôhols fight back for the opportunities and sources of livelihood before when there was no corridor. Although Dahagram was provided a corridor to move on to the mainland, but it was not permitted to open for the whole day. In 2011 the corridor is opened for 24 hours and certain government facilities were given to them. People struggled for decades for living a normal life. As it is allowed to open 24 hours for only last seven years, until 2011, government and other non-government services could not enter there for upholding their living standard. As a result their life and livelihood is lagging behind for a long. Now Dahagram Union is developing day by day. Although education, livelihood sources, medical and hospital facilities still needs to be developed, but people are relived as the enclaves and border issues are resolved and finally they became citizen of the Bangladesh.